The Fraternal Order of Police is already preparing for battle with mayoral candidate U.S. Rep. Chaka Fattah, who has publicly said that Abu-Jamal deserves a new trial.
“For that reason alone, we will not endorse this gentleman under any circumstances,” said FOP President Bobby Eddis. “I would go as far as to say we will work against his campaign.”
Eddis said the FOP was also upset because Fattah did not support a resolution in the U.S. House earlier this year condemning the French town of Saint-Denis for naming a street after Abu-Jamal. Eddis said Fattah told him he wouldn’t back the legislation because it was introduced by a Republican – U.S. Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick.
Eddis has posted a letter on the FOP Web site, telling his more than 14,000 members not to support Fattah.
“I will write a letter to every union president in the city explaining the significance of this,” he said.
Fattah made a statement through a spokesman yesterday.
“I fully respect and understand the position of the FOP,” he said. “As a congressman or as a future mayor, I will continue to work hand in hand with the FOP.”
He added, “Sometimes standing up for constitutional rights is unpopular. But I swore an oath to uphold constitutional rights and it’s my duty to do that even when it’s unpopular.”
DAILY NEWS: Oh No He Dih-Int!
WIKIPEDIA: Mumia, One More Time With Less Feeling